Maiden flights on Friday landed at newly constructed Anambra International Cargo Airport , Umueri, done by the Anambra State Government.
The aircrafts are Boeing 737 mark N5,-BUJ and Embraer 145 both owned by Air Peace Airline landed by 2.26pm and 2.46 pm respectively.
Gov. Willie Obiano of the state who addressed visibly excited Anambra people at the airport, said the state did not borrow a Kobo to construct the airport.
He said that the project began in December 2020, and they were able to do.the landing and other facilities within 15 months.
Obiano who described the maidien flight as very audacious moment, said that no army can rise against a determined one on any project.
“We began this project in January 2020 when Covid-19 was adversely affecting economies of every state, nation and the world over.
“This airport is an idea whose time has come. Our dream for our own airport began almost 30 years ago when the Government of Anambra State acquired 530 hectares of land in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area with the intention of building a domestic airport.
“The idea came up again in 2006 when Orient Petroleum dreamt of building an airport here in Umueri. Umu nnem, that dream is fulfilled today.
“We were able to start and by the grace of God we are here to witness this historic event”, he said
Obiano who listed.facilities already completed, said the airport has the best and longest runway, control tower and lightening system in Africa.
Mr Allen Onyema, Chief Executive Officer, Sir Peace Airline, said he was.overwhelm at the standard of the project.
“This Anambra airport is about the best in Africa in terms of the facilities we have here”, he said.
Chief Neville Uchendu, a contractor handling some construction works in the state said the quality of work done at the place would stand the test of time.
Mr Lawrence Anikpe, Senior Special Adviser to Obiano on Internally mbmbra Generated Revenue said the time the governnor started the project.was sign that the state was blessed with prudent manager.
